Pilates is a mind and body conditioning exercise method designed to build flexibility, strength, endurance, and coordination. It teaches balance and control of the body by focusing on proper alignment and functional movement. Practicing regularly, Pilates improves overall mental and physical well-being.

Q2.What are the differences between Pilates and Yoga?

You will find that while both Yoga and Pilates share many similarities, they are in fact very different. Pilates emphasizes more on building strength. Its moves are more controlled and requires focusing on body alignment and precision while executing each movement. Breathing is also different. Pilates uses lateral breathing. This “inhaling through your nose, exhaling through your mouth” action allows the abdomen to be engaged throughout the exercise.

Q3.What is the core muscle?

The core muscles are the deep, internal stabilizer muscles of the abdomen and back: Transverse Abdominus (TA), Internal Oblique, External Oblique, and Back Extensors.

Q4.How did Pilates start?

Pilates was developed in the 1920s by Joseph Pilates (1880-1967) to rehabilitate injured soldiers in England. He later moved to New York City with his wife and opened up a Pilates Studio where many dancers came to him to strengthen their bodies and heal their aches and pains. He called his method “Contrology,” as in “the motor function of brain ‘controls’ the mobility of body.” It was not until after his death that Pilates spread to general public through his students, who are referred as Pilates Elders.

Q5.I am not flexible. Can I start now?
Yes! We highly recommend people like you to start. Inflexible muscles inhibit your body to function properly. The sooner you start on this “Pilates” journey, the better your life will be!

Q6.I have lower back pain. Can I start?

As you develop your core strength, you develop stability throughout your entire torso. This is one of the ways Pilates helps people overcome back pain. As the trunk is properly stabilized, pressure on the back is relieved and the body is able to move freely and efficiently. As your body learns to move correctly and regains symmetry, headaches, pains in your neck and shoulders may also alleviate. Worthwhile to note that many Physical Therapists use Pilates as a part of rehabilitating their patients, and that many of them themselves are devotees of Pilates.

Q7.I haven’t exercise for a while. Can I start?

Pilates is a very adaptable method of exercise. All exercises can be modified to meet individual’s strengths and weaknesses. This enables any Pilates workout safe and effective for all people, men or women, from rehab patients, pre/post-natal moms to competitive athletes.

Q8.Is it true Pilates make us lose weight?

Any form of exercise will aid in weight loss. The practitioners of Pilates find that adding lean muscle mass and losing fat results in leaner, longer looking limbs.

Q9.Do I have to exercise everyday?

No. Considering the muscle recovery time, thrice a week would be ideal. Note that Pilates is gentle enough to practice everyday if you wish to.

A 2008 graduate and certified instructor of BASI Pilates, Yurika has been practicing Pilates for a several years. She started her mat work after her having a second child. She experienced first hand how Pilates can transform new moms. She then expanded her knowledge by obtaining a certification for Pre/Post-Natal Pilates Specialist.

Realizing the positive impacts Pilates has on one’s mind and body, she hopes to bring the benefits of Pilates to not only for adult clients but also for young children including her own.

She teaches private lessons at On Center Conditioning in Costa Mesa, CA, and group mat classes in Irvine, CA in English and Japanese.